Summer Workouts Are Underway — And One Blue Devil Is Already Making Waves Behind the Scenes. Maliq Brown Can’t Hide His Excitement Over One Impressive Freshman…
Durham, NC — The new era of Duke Basketball is officially taking shape as summer workouts ramp up inside Cameron Indoor Stadium. With returning stars, promising transfers, and one of the most highly touted recruiting classes in the nation, expectations are sky-high for Jon Scheyer’s squad.
But even amid all the hype, one newcomer is already separating himself — and catching the attention of the veterans.
Maliq Brown, entering his second season with the Blue Devils after transferring from Syracuse, has seen plenty of talent in his time. Yet, when asked recently which of his new teammates has stood out most so far, his answer came quickly — and with obvious excitement.
“He’s Just Got It” — Brown Praises Newcomer
Speaking on the latest episode of The Brotherhood Podcast, Brown couldn’t contain his admiration for Dame Sarr, the 6-foot-8 freshman wing from Italy by way of FC Barcelona.
“I mean, his wingspan — he’s got some long arms,” Brown said, smiling. “Just the feel he has for the game… being able to score, get a stop on defense, the ball-screen passing… I feel like that’s definitely something that’s going to help our team.”
High praise coming from Brown, known himself for his defensive instincts and disruptive ability. At 6-foot-9 and 225 pounds, Brown brings physicality and veteran experience to the Blue Devils’ frontcourt. But even he admits that Sarr’s skill set — particularly on the defensive end — is making an early impact.
Dame Sarr: The Latest Blue Devil to Watch
Hailing from Oderzo, Italy, Sarr arrives at Duke with significant international experience under his belt. He developed in the FC Barcelona system and recently showcased his all-around game at the Nike Hoop Summit, posting 17 points and four rebounds for Team World.
Sarr is part of Duke’s elite 2025 recruiting class, one that features four five-star prospects. But based on early feedback from teammates like Brown, Sarr’s impact may come sooner rather than later.
Duke’s Defensive Potential Taking Shape
With veterans like Brown setting the tone and newcomers like Sarr already making waves, Duke’s defensive identity is quickly becoming a point of emphasis this summer.
The combination of length, versatility, and high basketball IQ could give this year’s team the kind of disruptive edge that defines championship contenders.
And if the early buzz out of summer workouts is any indication, Dame Sarr may play a key role in making that vision a reality.
A Promising Start to the Summer
It’s still early, but the energy inside Duke’s workouts is palpable. Veterans are taking notice. Freshmen are rising to the challenge. And for Blue Devil fans, that’s exactly the kind of summer progress that builds belief heading into the fall.
As for Maliq Brown, his message is clear: keep an eye on Dame Sarr — this freshman is just getting started.
